DANIEL Sturridge needs another loan move if he is to fulfil his potential at Stamford Bridge, according to former Blues striker Steve Finnieston.

The England U21 international bagged eight goals in 12 games while on loan with Owen Coyle's Bolton Wanderers last term.

Finnieston, whose goal ratio was better than one in three during his seven-year Chelsea career, says Sturridge would benefit from a similar move again next season.

"I would think he is probably better off going out on loan again," said Finnieston, who tormented defences at the Bridge in the 70s. "I'm sure he just wants to play and keep scoring goals.

"He did very well while on loan and he has proven that he can score goals in the Premier League, but Chelsea need someone who can score goals to win both the league and the European Cup - that is a level above.

"If Chelsea are going to win the Champions League they are looking for the elite players and it's a different game in the middle of the table."

Blues boss Andre Villas-Boas will have the final say on whether Sturridge is shipped out again or stays to fight for a first-team spot.

The Portuguese coach is giving the ex-Manchester City frontman the chance to impress on Chelsea's pre-season tour of Asia, which continues on Sunday against Thailand All Stars.

"Daniel is a very, very interesting player with a tremendous future," said Villas-Boas. "The individual is highly regarded by myself. I have 15 days in Asia to make the best decision and I need those four games to continue to assess.

"When we get back from Asia we have a week running into the Rangers game and I think from then on a decision will have to be taken to be ready for the first game of the season."

West Bromwich Albion, Stoke City, Newcastle United and Bolton are all reportedly interested in securing Sturridge's services for next season.

And the striker has even been linked with a move to Anderlecht as part of an £18million bid to bring Belgian starlet Romelu Lukaku to west London.